New Genesis X Gran Equator concept reveals desire to take on Land Rover Defender

Genesis has created yet another concept model, although this time the premium brand has embraced its adventurous side to dream up the X Gran Equator: an out of the ordinary interpretation of the 4x4, that looks like it would happily get down and dirty with the Mercedes G-Glass or Land Rover Defender.

The Genesis X Gran Equator is the brand’s first off-road-inspired concept and draws inspiration from classic 4x4s, although its preposterously long bonnet, slim windows, swept-back C-pillar and split-opening tailgate actually remind us more of an estate car.

Speaking to Auto Express ahead of the car’s debut at the New York Auto Show, Genesis’ chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke explained: “It is, let's say, an old version of an SUV. Obviously, we're not going to make a G-Wagen or a Jeep. It has to have elegance, and this is why it has those proportions, but it has ground clearance and it does have off-road capability.”

He also told us that, rather than being a challenge, it was "fantastic" that Genesis didn’t have any off-road heritage and was able to take inspiration from iconic 4x4s. “You don't have the ballast,” he said. “You can create something new.” 

Indeed, rather than building a jacked-up version of the existing GV70 SUV, or modifying any of its numerous existing concepts, Genesis decided to start from scratch for the Gran Equator, with a focus on clean lines and surfaces.

The vertical front end is another classic design trait for a 4x4 or luxury SUV, while having two lightbars wrapping around either end of the car is a Genesis signature. There’s also cladding on the both bumpers and along the sides, plus 24-inch beadlock wheels with nobbly Nitto Ridge Grappler off-road tyres. 

At the back, as we mentioned, is a split-opening tailgate – just like you’d find on a Range Rover – with two built-in chairs to let the driver and their passenger enjoy their surroundings. Finally, up top are a set of roof rails and four, presumably removable, safari windows.

Meanwhile the interior blends modern technology with analogue elements, such as the four individual instrument displays across the dashboard that were inspired by the dials on vintage cameras. These provide key off-roading information and include an inclinometer and a compass. 

There are physical buttons on the centre console too, and grab handles for any potentially nervous passengers. However, there’s no touchscreen in the X Gran Equator, because Genesis wants the driver of this car to focus only on the road ahead.

Meanwhile, there are modular storage options dotted around the cabin, and the front seats – the upholstery for which mixes luxurious quilted leather with more durable canvas – can swivel around when you want to natter with passengers in the back.

A road-going version of the Genesis X Gran Equator hasn’t been confirmed unfortunately. Donckerwolke told us he “would love” to put it into production, but ultimately it'll be down to potential customers to make that happen, because “by showing this and by showing the interest of the public, we can basically already have an idea of the reality of the business case.”

Even if Genesis never builds a car exactly like this, the concept supposedly signals the brand’s desire to create more lifestyle-oriented vehicles. Plus some of its design language and practical features, such as the split-opening tailgate, are likely to make their way onto future models.

Click here for our list of the best 4x4s and off-roaders...